Anxiety in Autistic Youth: Understanding the Impact on Child, Caregiver, and Family Quality of Life

Limited research has examined how anxiety affects the quality of life (QoL) of autistic individuals and their family. In this mixed-method study, we investigated the impact of anxiety symptoms on the lives of autistic children and family members, and the association between anxiety symptom severity, child QoL, family QoL, and caregiver stress. Twenty autistic youth with clinically significant anxiety aged 8–14 years of age and their caregivers completed questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Twenty themes emerged to highlight how anxiety significantly impacts autistic children and their families across various areas of life. Higher levels of anxiety were associated with lower child QoL. Implications for providing appropriate, evidence-based services to support families and promote positive QoL are discussed.